The Dutch driver is finally able to resume his place behind the ABT’s wheel after breaking his wrist during the inaugural race of the season in Mexico City after a first lap collision with Nissan’s Norman Nato.
Credit: ABT Cupra Media Bank
He was then forced to miss out on the next races in Saudi Arabia and India, while the whole Abt team was disqualified from the Cape Town races due to a rear suspension issue. In the other races, Frijns was replaced by Abt’s Reserve Driver Kelvin van der Linde.
The first ever Formula E race in Brasil will see the 2021 Le Mans winner return to team up with his teammate Nico Muller in order to try and score the first points of the season for the returning ABT CUPRA team.
“It feels insanely good to be preparing for a race again with Nico and the whole team – it’s so good to be back,” said the former Envision Racing driver ahead of his return to racing.
“The past two months have felt like an eternity. Many thanks to the team, the FIA, all the doctors and physios, and the whole Formula E paddock, who have been patient with me despite me being so impatient.”
Frijns also took part in last week’s 12 Hours of Sebring with WRT, ended in P7, which confirmed his complete recovery from the injury. He also prepared the São Paulo round in the simulator with Muller.
“My hand feels good, racing in Sebring went smoothly, I’m fit for São Paulo. I was in contact with the team the whole time, was involved in everything and am up to date with all the procedures – the race weekend can start.”
ABT’s Team Principal and CEO Thomas Biermaier is pleased to see Frijns return on track as well, while also grateful for van der Linde who had stepped up in the earlier rounds.
“The break was good for the whole team, everyone was able to take a deep breath and gather new strength,” added Biermaier recalling the sadness of being forced to retire after a positive practise session in Cape Town.
“Now we are delighted that Robin is back on board and will certainly support us with his experience. At the same time, we say a big thank you to Kelvin, who has done a mega job on and off the track over the past two months and will of course remain part of the team,” he concluded.
